Gloria Character Analysis

Introduction and Role in the Text

Gloria serves as a pivotal human character in the film Barbie. She is a Mattel employee and Sasha’s mother. Her role is crucial in bridging the fantastical world of Barbie Land with the realities of the human world.

Gloria’s initial connection to Stereotypical Barbie drives much of the narrative. Her experiences profoundly impact the protagonist’s journey of self-discovery.

Character Traits with Supporting Evidence

Creative and Imaginative

Gloria possesses a rich imagination, evident in her drawings of “depressed Barbie” concepts. These sketches reflect a desire for Barbies that mirror real-world complexities. This trait highlights her understanding of multifaceted human emotions.

Empathetic and Understanding

She demonstrates deep empathy, particularly towards Barbie’s existential crisis. Gloria offers comfort and guidance when Barbie questions her purpose. Her support is vital for Barbie’s emotional growth.

Resilient and Practical

Despite the challenges of single motherhood and a demanding job, Gloria maintains a practical outlook. She navigates the absurdities of Barbie Land with surprising composure. This resilience enables her to assist Barbie effectively.

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Character Development Arc

Gloria begins as a somewhat disillusioned mother, grappling with her daughter’s teenage angst. Her creative aspirations are suppressed by daily life. She feels disconnected from her teenage daughter, Sasha.

Her journey with Barbie reignites her artistic spirit and strengthens her bond with Sasha. By the film’s end, Gloria embraces her creativity and finds renewed purpose. She becomes a powerful advocate for diverse representations of womanhood.

Key Relationships and How They Shape the Character

Relationship with Sasha

Gloria’s relationship with her daughter, Sasha, is central to her development. Sasha’s cynicism initially creates a rift between them. However, their shared experience with Barbie ultimately brings them closer. This bond helps Gloria rediscover her own identity.

Relationship with Barbie

Her interactions with Stereotypical Barbie are transformative for both characters. Gloria acts as a mentor figure, guiding Barbie through the complexities of human emotion. Barbie, in turn, inspires Gloria to embrace her authentic self.

Significance to Major Themes

Feminism and Patriarchy

Gloria’s character powerfully explores themes of feminism. Her desire for Barbies that reflect real women’s struggles challenges traditional patriarchal ideals. She champions the idea of women being more than just their appearance.

Identity and Self-Discovery

She embodies the theme of identity, particularly for women navigating midlife. Gloria’s journey illustrates the importance of reclaiming one’s passions. Her self-discovery mirrors Barbie’s search for individuality.

Mother-Daughter Relationships

The film uses Gloria to highlight the evolving dynamics of mother-daughter relationships. Her efforts to connect with Sasha resonate with the challenges many families face. This theme adds emotional depth to the narrative.

Memorable Quotes from or about this Character

• “We mothers stand still so our daughters can look back to see how far they’ve come.” This quote encapsulates Gloria’s sacrificial love and wisdom. It reflects her general vision and viewpoint on motherhood.
• “You have to be thin, but not too thin. And you can never say you want to be thin.” This observation from Gloria highlights the impossible standards placed on women. It directly relates to the film’s critique of societal pressures.

Exam Tips: How to Use This Character in Answers

• Discuss Gloria when examining themes of identity, particularly female identity and societal expectations.
• Analyse her role as a catalyst for Barbie’s development and self-realisation.
• Use her relationship with Sasha to explore intergenerational dynamics and communication.
• Reference her creative ideas to discuss the film’s critique of unrealistic beauty standards.
• Consider her as a representation of the “real woman” in contrast to the idealised Barbies.

Motivations, Conflicts, and Changes Throughout the Text

Gloria is initially motivated by a desire to reconnect with her daughter and find personal fulfilment. Her internal conflict stems from suppressing her creative impulses. She struggles with the feeling of being overlooked.

Her primary external conflict involves navigating the expectations of her job and family life. Through her journey, she changes from a passive observer to an active participant. She becomes a confident woman who embraces her full self.

Related Pages

• Barbie Study Guide
• Barbie Summary
• Themes in Barbie
• Key Moments in Barbie
• Key Quotes in Barbie
• Barbie Character Analysis